Overview

• The CDU-led government plans to prohibit private smartphone use in all Hessian schools from the next school year.
• Greens argue that a mere ban amounts to symbolism and call for a comprehensive media education program across all grade levels.
• They propose equipping every student from the seventh grade with standardized laptops to ensure equal access to digital tools.
• Under the Green plan, laptop costs would be shared between the state and families through a subsidized rental-purchase scheme with free devices for about 20% of pupils from low-income households.
• A Landtag vote on the smartphone restrictions is scheduled for June, and experts warn that improving digital competence is essential alongside any device regulation.